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Roasted Garlic and Leek Soup

This soup features slow-roasted garlic and tender leeks blended into a smooth, velvety purée. The roasting process caramelizes the garlic and leeks, creating a rich, sweet flavor profile with a creamy texture and appealing golden appearance.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head garlic whole with skin
  • 3 large leeks cleaned and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting and sautéing
  • 4 cups vegetable broth hot
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Blender or immersion blender
  • Large pot

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the whole garlic head on a baking sheet, drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil, and roast until the cloves are soft and golden, about 40 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, clean and slice the leeks lengthwise, then chop them into smaller pieces. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the leeks until they soften and become slightly translucent, about 8 minutes.
  3. Once the garlic is roasted and cool enough to handle, squeeze the roasted cloves out of their skins into a small bowl. Mash them slightly to release their sweet, nutty aroma.
  4. Add the mashed roasted garlic to the sautéed leeks, stirring to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the hot vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the leeks to soften further.
  6. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth and creamy, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches and purée until silky.
  7. Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground pepper as needed, then stir to incorporate.
  8. Ladle the hot, velvety soup into bowls, and optionally, drizzle with a little extra olive oil or garnish with herbs.
  9. Enjoy the deep, caramelized flavors of the roasted garlic combined with the tender leeks in this comforting, smooth soup.

Notes

For a richer taste, add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese before serving. To enhance presentation, garnish with fresh herbs or a swirl of extra virgin olive oil.